Liverpool announces a long-term extension for coach Jurgen Klopp
LIVERPOOL, England -- Jurgen Klopp signed a new "long-term" contract with Liverpool on Friday, just nine months after taking charge of the English Premier League club.
Liverpool didn't disclose the length of the deal. British media reported it was a six-year contract, tying Klopp to Anfield through 2022.
The charismatic Klopp has already become a fans' favorite at Liverpool, guiding the team to the Europa League and League Cup finals. Liverpool lost both finals.
"We are very much at the beginning of our journey," Klopp said, "but to already have the connection we have with this very special place is incredible."
John Henry, Liverpool's principal owner, said not giving Klopp an extended deal would have been "irresponsible."
"The overriding motivation behind this decision is Jurgen's commitment to overall improvement and development," Henry said. "In Jurgen, we have someone who is always looking ahead, always looking beyond his own wants and needs, and putting the club first."
Zeljko Buvac and Peter Krawietz have also had their contracts extended, continuing a coaching relationship with Klopp spanning two decades.
Klopp left Borussia Dortmund at the end of the 2014-15 season after seven years at the German club. He replaced the fired Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool.
Liverpool finished eighth in the Premier League and will not be playing in Europe next season.
"There is much to do and much to achieve," Klopp said, "and we look to do this by being the most completely together group anywhere in the world."
